NCT’s many members are slowly beginning to embark upon solo careers, every with their very own musical focus. Yuta has been with the group because the very starting, debuting in 2016 as a part of NCT 127. Since then, he’s felt like one of many extra underutilized abilities. No matter my ideas on the track itself, I’m completely happy to see him lastly get a highlight of his personal.

Not like different NCT members, Yuta’s solo work has a robust rock edge. Off The Masks may simply be mistaken for a brand new observe by standard J-rock acts ONE OK ROCK or Miyavi, leaving all traces of NCT behind. Refreshingly, he dives straight into the style, guttural screams and all. I’m unsure what I used to be anticipating from him, however this undoubtedly took my off guard. It’s been awhile since an idol’s solo launch has performed that.

Taking the Yuta and the NCT connection out of it, Off The Masks is a reasonably normal laborious rocker. This style has misplaced centrality in most music markets however nonetheless rides excessive in Japan, making it much less distinct should you’re a daily J-rock listener. Nevertheless, the track’s refrain hits laborious and Yuta sounds unbelievable — like an artist lastly free of shackles. Add a wholesome dose of shredding guitar and also you’ve received a burst of vitality that’s troublesome to withstand. The track received’t be for everybody, nevertheless it’s so good to listen to him observe his ardour.

Grade: B